Mid-game soundbites

Mike Pelfrey told us he feels more confident and more comfortable than last year. It's only been 5 innings in two spring training starts, but he's working quickly, going after hitters, and using his breaking balls effectively. He broke two Braves' bats with his sinker.

With El Duque seemingly stuck in neutral, Pelfrey's chances at a rotation spot look better every day. But Pelfrey isn't willing to count out the Cuban.

"I would never count El Duque out," he said. "He could probably go without throwing all of spring training and come out the first time and go eight innings. I'd never be surprised at what he does."

Closer Billy Wagner is happy with his pitches -- yes, all four of them -- but was kicking himself for not fielding a grounder under his glove that allowed a run to score.

"The thing that puts a damper on the whole thing is not catching that frickin' slow roller back to you," Wagner said.

Kind of refreshing to actually see someone in spring training get upset for messing up after so much "well, it's early, there's plenty of time to get ready." Wagner was saying that if he gives up a run in the regular season, that usually equals a blown save -- not a habit he wants to get into here in the spring.